Common female cockroaches can reproduce for years without needing a mate, producing dozens of generations of all-female descendants, a team of scientists has found. Parthenogenesis is a form of asexual reproduction, allowing young insects to spawn from unfertilised eggs. In the case of the American cockroach, the largest roach commonly found across the globe, parthenogenesis was previously thought to be an option of last resort. Though that number declined to around , the entomologists believe their research goes some way toward explaining how roaches can endure in hostile conditions. There are 46, species of cockroach across the globe, including eight centimetre long specimens found in Australia and even larger varieties in the caves of Central and South America.
Cockroaches are insects of the order Blattodea , which also includes termites. About 30 cockroach species out of 4, are associated with human habitats. About four species are well known as pests. The cockroaches are an ancient group, dating back at least as far as the Carboniferous period, some million years ago. Those early ancestors however lacked the internal ovipositors of modern roaches.
Give us a call: Extremely heavy infestations are not uncommon. Often found aboard ships.
The idea of cockroaches multiplying in your home can make anyone anxious. In just a few months, you can go from a few roaches to a major infestation. Understanding the cockroach life cycle can help you in your quest to get rid of them. Cockroaches use pheromones to attract mates.